Young Fisherman Jay Smith Is Wightlink’s Most Responsible Angler For 2024

A teenage Isle of Wight angler has been recognised for showing respect for the fish he catches, his surroundings and the people he fishes alongside on Ryde Pier.

Fifteen-year-old Jay Smith from Ryde is the latest winner of the Wightlink Most Responsible Angler Award.

Event organisers Vectis Boating and Fishing Club welcomed 31 junior anglers to its summer Fishing Frenzy series on Wightlink’s pier.

Although fish numbers were down on previous years, the club was pleased plenty of young anglers took part.

“Jay has such a calm personality and takes everything in his stride,” says Colin Webb of Vectis BFC.

“He’s fished the frenzy for at least five years and, although he has always been competitive, he has never won before.”

Jay says:

“It is great to win this award. I take the environment I fish in, and the care of the fish themselves, very seriously.”

This was the last time that the Ryde Academy student was eligible to compete in the Fishing Frenzy.

Every year, as part of its Wightlink in the Community programme, Wightlink gets together with the club to reward the young fisherman or woman who has conducted themselves best over a year’s angling on Ryde Pier.

Wightlink ‘s Island Ports Manager Martin Gulliver added:

“It’s great to see a young person thinking about their surroundings and particularly caring for the fish they catch.

“We are delighted to support Vectis Boating and Fishing Club’s events on Ryde Pier.

"Congratulations to Colin and his team – and all those young anglers who take part in the Fishing Frenzy.”

The event was co-sponsored by Wightlink and Ryde Bait and Tackle Shop.

This year’s trophy has been sourced from Sculptglass of Arreton as part of Wightlink’s policy to work with local suppliers whenever possible.